Modine Leads Introduction of Environmentally FriendlyVehicle Air Conditioning Systems Using Carbon Dioxide
RACINE, Wis.--Modine Manufacturing Company , a diversified leader in thermal management technology and solutions, reiterated today the company’s ongoing commitment to supporting the introduction of environmentally friendly carbon dioxide (CO2) vehicle air conditioning systems.
On September 6, the German Automotive Association announced that leading European original equipment manufacturers plan to switch to CO2, referred to as R744, replacing the synthetic medium R134a currently used for mobile air conditioning. This decision will create market opportunities for Modine, a leader in R744 air conditioning technology with over 20 CO2 component and systems patents.
“Modine has been a leader in the transformation of vehicle climate control with the R744 cooling technology, which eliminates the use of harmful hydro fluorocarbons in vehicle air conditioning systems,” said David B. Rayburn, President and Chief Executive Officer. “The recent announcement of the adoption of this technology by our largest customers reinforces our decision in 1997 to begin development of R744 air conditioning components and systems to meet the need for better performing and more environmentally friendly vehicles.”
Modine R744 components are currently used in development projects with German vehicle manufacturers. In each case, the R744 alternative exhibits significant improvements in heating and cooling over R134a. The company also worked closely with the U.S. Army in the use of R744 and in 2006 was awarded the U.S. Army Environmental Excellence Award for work done on R744 air conditioning system development.
“We are developing the next generation of alternate refrigerant technology and are continuing to push forward enhancements,” said Dr. Anthony C. De Vuono, Vice President and Chief Technology Officer. “Our objective is to help our customers prepare for the upcoming laws to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases from mobile air conditioning systems. The new standards will bring about a world-wide technological leap.”
R744 has been subjected to extensive tests as a substitute for R134a. European regulations mandate the elimination of R134a starting in 2011 because of its global warming impact. R744 has only 1/1300 of the global warming potential of R134a. In addition, its excellent thermodynamic properties will help the R744 air conditioning system provide faster cooling times while at the same time reducing air conditioning related fuel consumption. Further, the recycling costs for the car manufacturers are significantly lower, since R744 is a natural compound and is readily available.
“Our products have successfully completed rigorous testing,” said De Vuono. “With over 1.5 million test kilometers completed, the Modine R744 air conditioning heat exchangers are a proven technology.”
About Modine
Founded in 1916, with fiscal 2007 revenues from continuing operations of $1.8 billion, Modine specializes in thermal management systems and components, bringing highly engineered heating and cooling technology and solutions to diversified global markets. Modine products are used in light, medium and heavy-duty vehicles, HVAC equipment, industrial equipment, refrigeration systems, fuel cells and electronics. Based in Racine, Wisconsin, the company has approximately 7,700 employees at 34 facilities in 15 countries worldwide. For information about Modine, visit www.modine.com.